"If civvies can do it, why can't the military?"
The military uses transient maintenace who treat aircraft like renal cars. The civilians are a "For Profit" outfit, whereas the military isn't. Add the socialist element to most militaries and there is little incentive to "Make Things Go". Only the very best leadership, a sense of deep pride, carrot and stick mentality, reliable aircraft and deep pockets can make military helos shine. In the "real world" (civvies) incompetance is usualy removed and prices increased to match aircraft ills.